Mainebiz

V O L . X X V I N O. X X I I 4 G I V I N G G U I D E 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 21 S U P P O R T I N G M A I N E N O N P R O F I T S Nonprofits need business and individual backing now more than ever Once again, the Maine Association of Non- profits is pleased to partner with Mainebiz on this annual spotlight on Maine's nonprofit sec- tor and the importance of supporting them as partners in sustaining Maine's economy and quality of life. It comes as no surprise that this year has taken a heavy toll on Maine's non- profits — both as employers and providers of essential services. ese orga- nizations are our social safety net and our community glue. ey are central to figuring out how we will get through, and heal from, the multiple crises stemming from the pandemic. Yet they operate in a system that does not cover the true cost of running a mission- centered business and often places restrictions that stymie effectiveness and inno- vation. As a result, too many lack adequate resources and flexibility to navigate the extraordinary business challenges and increased demands for services. Others will miss out on opportunities to think boldly and creatively as we emerge from this crisis. If you, as an individual or business, are in a position to help, we need you now more than ever. Here's how: 1. Be flexible with financial support. e pandemic has been a gamechanger for many. Arts and cultural institu- tions were among the first to close and some are still unsure when, or if, they can reopen. Human services organizations must keep staff and volun- teers safe while community needs skyrocket. Youth organizations are pivot- ing from after-school activities to fighting food insecurity. When you give, do so with few strings attached. 2. If you can, give more. Nonprofits are being asked to do more, adding to their already maxed-out work load and adapting quickly in response to changing and growing community needs. In a time of crisis, early investments can help fuel any silver linings that develop, such as innovative solutions to community problems and long-term savings from infrastructure improvements. 3. Engage nonprofits, even the small ones, as valued partners. As we build back our communities, include nonprofit perspectives, skills and ideas in coordinating efforts and sharing effective strategies. is may require proactively seeking out organizations that aren't as visible in the public eye. To grasp what's happening for our communities, it's important to get close to the action. Maine's nonprofits employ 1 in 6 Maine workers and contribute $12 billion to the economy. ey educate our children and youth, support entrepreneurs, keep all of us safe and healthy and enrich our natural and built environments. We all ben- efit from a vibrant nonprofit sector. It's time we all pitch in to keep it that way. Jennifer Hutchins Executive Director Maine Association of Nonprofits Sheridan Construction, a true Maine corpora- tion, established in 1947, with principal offices located in Fairfield, believes strongly in support- ing our communities and fellow small businesses. Sheridan demonstrates this support by buying local goods and services as well as by contrib- uting to the charitable organizations whose employees and volunteers provide such critically needed help and guidance for the members of our communities. Without the outstanding work performed by these organizations, we would see the loss of community spirit and character. e current year's unique circumstances have highlighted the importance of the need for neighbors to help neighbors. Nonprofits and charitable organizations recognize the beneficial results of their work for the betterment of society and Sheridan is glad to be able to contribute to the continuance of their services. Today's world is one of immense competition and demands much from each of us. e resources needed to assist the members of our communities are stretched thin. Without the augmenting efforts of the nonprofits and charitable organi- zations, many of our neighbors and friends would have a much tougher time meeting their obligations and being able to enjoy some life's pleasures. Sheridan believes that the success of one enables the success of others. e people who invest their time and devote their careers to improving our neigh- borhoods and communities through the offices of the nonprofits and charitable organizations provide many avenues for beginning the paths toward success and the means to "pay it forward." Having the availability of these avenues of oppor- tunity are critical to the health and viability of societies in general. All of us at Sheridan sincerely thank those community members who devote their time and energy toward enhancing and supporting the lives of their fel- low neighbors. e Greater Waterville Region is fortunate to have the ability to utilize the many, many benefits provided by the Alfond Youth and Community Cen- ter. Community members, young and old, have access to excellent facilities and personnel who can provide the means for them to more fully enjoy what life can provide. e people who are providing those needed functions at the AYCC are dedicated to making the community a success and deserve the sup- port we all can bring. Most of Maine's communities have similar success stories. Maine does not have a large population and, at times, the fluctuations of the state's economy bring hardships that can only be assuaged by having volunteers and people who understand the importance of community spirit. It is clearly beneficial to us all to be able to continue to support our Nonprofit and charitable organizations. Mitchell P. Sammons President Sheridan Construction FROM THE GIVING GUIDE SPONSOR FROM THE GIVING GUIDE PARTNER The pandemic has been a gamechanger for many.

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